Lionel Richie Hints at Recording New ‘We Are the World’ Song Amid Pandemic

The world needs some unity amid the coronavirus pandemic – Lionel Richie thinks a re-release of “We Are the World” might do the trick.

What We Know:

  • The USA for Africa hit, which Richie co-wrote with Michael Jackson, raised $63 million for famine relief, and now the American Idol judge thinks it’s time to revamp the tune celebrating the song’s 35th anniversary earlier this month.
  • During a recent People magazine interview, Richie revealed that he’s been contemplating reviving the song to raise money for victims of the deadly COVID-19 virus.

“Every time I try and write another message, I write those same words.”

  • During the global outbreak, Richie said he is taking a step back and listening to the lyrics even more. “What happened in China, in Europe, it came here. So, if we don’t save our brothers there, it’s going to come home. It’s all of us. All of us are in this together,” Richie said.
  • In 2010, the song was remade to raise money for Haitian earthquake victims. Produced by Quincy Jones and executive produced by Richie, the remake featured Barbara Streisand, Tony Bennett, Justin Bieber, Mary J. Blige, Josh Groban, Toni Braxton, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Hudson, Jennifer Nettles, Wyclef Jean, Usher, Jamie Foxx, Mary Mary, Lil Wayne, Freda Payne, Faith Evans, Kid Cudi, Snoop Dogg, Nipsey Hussle, Kanye West and many, many more.

One thing is for sure, the world could use some uplifting right now.